Name. His name is Dennis (or Mud), phr. (American).—A phrase indicative of collapse or defeat : to be sent up Salt River (q.v.); to be played out (q.v.). To take one's name in vain, verb. phr. (colloquial).—To mention by name : the person spoken of having unexpectedly or accidentally overheard. 1708-10. Swift, Polite Conversation, Neverout ....